Bachelor

Bachelor of Science (Major in Earth Sciences)

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science majoring in Earth Sciences trains geologists and geophysicists to study the Earth — its deep interior, changing surface, dynamic systems (moving plates, atmosphere and ocean circulation), and billions of years of geological history, including the evolution of life. Earth Scientists draw upon chemistry, physics, biology, and mathematics, with a strong emphasis on practical field and laboratory skills.

From Year 3, students specialise in one of four streams: Geology (rock structures, mapping, field investigations), Geochemistry (chemical composition of Earth materials), Geophysics (physical properties and processes of the Earth), or Environmental Geology (effects of natural hazards and economic development). UPNG graduates search for oil and minerals, map rock structures, survey ocean floors, conduct pre-construction investigations, study environmental effects of mining, and work to understand and mitigate natural hazards — including earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions — that profoundly affect Papua New Guinea.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for selection into the Science Foundation Year (SFY), applicants must have successfully completed Grade 12 from a recognised institution. Requirements are strict:

  • Minimum overall GPA of 3.20 (in practice, applicants with higher GPAs are generally considered).
  • Minimum grade of B in English — a grade of C automatically disqualifies the applicant.
  • Minimum grade of A in Advanced Mathematics (Maths A) — General Mathematics (Maths B) cannot substitute for Advanced Mathematics.
  • Minimum grade of B in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at Grade 12 level.
  • Intake is limited by a strict quota system.

Non-School Leavers must complete all three sciences in addition to English, and must complete Applied Finite Mathematics if upgrading Mathematics A. They must meet the minimum GPA of 3.20 and will be recommended to enrol at the NCD Open Campus if all requirements are met.

Course Structure

Year 1

Semester 1

  • 1.10501Physical Geology

Semester 2

  • 1.10503Earth History
  • 1.10502Geology & Disaster Reduction

Year 2

Semester 1

  • 1.20505Sedimentology
  • 1.20506Photogeology & Geospatial Analysis

Semester 2

  • 1.20507Geological Mapping
  • 1.20508Rocks, Minerals & Microscopy

Year 3

Semester 1

  • 1.30508Igneous & Metamorphic Petrology
  • 1.30510Field & Structural Geology
  • 1.30512PNG Resource Geology

Semester 2

  • 1.30506Geology Work Experience

Year 4

Semester 1

  • 1.40502Mineral Deposits & Geochemistry
  • 1.40503Engineering & Environmental Geology
  • 1.40505Applied Geophysics
  • 1.40507Geology Special Topic
  • 1.41001Selected Topic
  • 1.41001Selected Topic

Semester 2

  • 1.40504Petroleum Geology
  • 1.40506Tectonics & PNG Geology
  • 1.40507Geology Special Topic
  • 1.40509Petroleum Engineering
  • 1.41001Selected Topic
  • 1.41001Selected Topic

Course codes shown are indicative. Please contact the School directly for official course codes and credit information.